Mills Block Forest
Discover Mills Block Forest, a serene boreal woodland with tranquil ponds and diverse trees, perfect for peaceful walks and family adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant temps
Mills Block Forest
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Mills Block Forest, a serene boreal woodland with tranquil ponds and diverse trees, perfect for peaceful walks and family adventures.
"A great walking spot with friends, offering a peaceful hike among diverse trees and two ponds."
Bug Spray is Essential!
Don't forget bug spray, especially in spring! Bugs can be plentiful. :bug:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The east loop has steep, rocky sections. Good shoes are a must for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serene Ponds
Within Mills Block Forest
Discover two tranquil ponds offering peaceful reflections and a chance to connect with nature's quiet beauty.
Towering Boreal Trees
Throughout Mills Block Forest
Wander through a diverse forest of pine, spruce, balsam, birch, and poplar, creating a lush and immersive natural experience.
Big Boreal Adventure
Various points in Mills Block Forest
Engage kids with the Big Boreal Adventure scavenger hunt, adding an element of fun and discovery to your family hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bugs (or Avoid Them!)
Footwear is Key for Loops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bug Spray is Essential!
Don't forget bug spray, especially in spring! Bugs can be plentiful. :bug:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The east loop has steep, rocky sections. Good shoes are a must for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Loops
Well-marked trails make it easy to navigate. Watch for downed trees that might block the full loop. :walking:
Dog-Friendly Trails
A great spot for dog walks! Keep them on a leash and enjoy the nature together. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bug Spray is Essential!
Don't forget bug spray, especially in spring! Bugs can be plentiful. :bug:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The east loop has steep, rocky sections. Good shoes are a must for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Loops
Well-marked trails make it easy to navigate. Watch for downed trees that might block the full loop. :walking:
Dog-Friendly Trails
A great spot for dog walks! Keep them on a leash and enjoy the nature together. :dog:
Scavenger Hunt Fun
Kids will love the Big Boreal Adventure scavenger hunt posts scattered throughout. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mills Block Forest for its accessible trails, beautiful natural scenery with ponds and diverse trees, and its dog-friendly atmosphere. It's a great spot for a peaceful walk and family fun with the Big Boreal Adventure scavenger hunt. Some trails can be muddy or icy, and bug spray is essential in warmer months.
"I make Youtube videos on hiking areas around thunder bay
Channel name: Vicarious Living
Video name: Peaceful Walk: Mills Block Forest
This location is quite popular and has a ton of bugs in spring so bring that BUG SPRAY. The long stretch is quite flat with some board walks over all great walking spot with friends. I Recommend"
Vicarious Living
"A great hiking/walking trail. Not a long drive to get there which is a plus. It's paths are wide and easy to manage. Great for taking the dogs for a walk and being in nature."
Joey Catanzaro
"Mills Block is a good place for a quiet hike among the pine, spruce, balsam, birch and poplar trees, and 2 ponds. If you take your kids, look for the post for the Big Boreal Adventure scavenger hunt.
It's mostly flat though the east loop has some steep rocky sections so wear good footwear. Watch for muddy or icy conditions in spring and fall.
It's definitely a worthwhile walk."
Bruce McKay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mills Block Forest is conveniently located a short drive from Thunder Bay. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most common method. The trails are generally well-marked once you arrive.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors. It's a popular spot, so arriving earlier in the day can ensure you get a good spot, especially on weekends.
Mills Block Forest is a relatively short drive from downtown Thunder Bay, making it an accessible nature escape for locals and tourists alike.
The east loop of Mills Block Forest is known for its steeper, rockier terrain. Ensure you follow the trail markers carefully and are prepared for a more challenging hike compared to the flatter sections.
While primarily known for hiking, the wide paths might accommodate some cycling. However, it's best to check local regulations or observe other visitors to confirm bike accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mills Block Forest is a public park and typically does not require an entrance fee, making it a free and accessible outdoor activity.
As an outdoor natural area, Mills Block Forest is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no strict operating hours, allowing for flexible visit times.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary for Mills Block Forest as it's a public park. You can visit spontaneously.
Generally, no special permits are required for casual day visits to Mills Block Forest. However, for organized events or specific activities, it's always wise to check with local authorities.
While the trails might be covered in snow, Mills Block Forest can still be visited in winter for snowshoeing or winter hiking, though conditions can be challenging.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way to experience Mills Block Forest is by taking a leisurely walk or hike along its well-marked trails, enjoying the diverse boreal forest and tranquil ponds.
Most trails are flat and wide, suitable for most fitness levels. However, the east loop has steep, rocky sections that require more effort and good footwear.
You can expect to see various forest birds, squirrels, and potentially other small woodland creatures. The ponds might also attract waterfowl.
Yes, Mills Block Forest offers beautiful natural scenery, especially the ponds and the variety of trees, making it a great spot for nature photography.
Information on restroom availability can vary. It's advisable to check recent visitor comments or local park information, as facilities might be limited.
📸 📸 Photography
The two ponds offer serene reflections and are prime spots for photography. The diverse boreal forest with its varied trees also provides excellent photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The ponds can be particularly beautiful during these golden hours.
Keep an eye out for the 'secret magic rocks' mentioned by visitors, which could lead to unique and intriguing photo subjects. The Big Boreal Adventure posts also offer fun photo ops.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the beauty. If you're serious about nature photography, a wide-angle lens can be great for forest scenes and a telephoto lens for wildlife.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local park authorities or Transport Canada for current rules regarding drone operation in natural areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Casual Walkers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails of Mills Block Forest
When planning your visit, consider the time of year. Spring can bring muddy conditions and a significant number of insects, making bug spray a necessity. Conversely, fall offers crisp air and beautiful foliage, though icy patches can form. The presence of some downed trees has been noted, which can occasionally make completing a full loop difficult, so staying aware of your surroundings is key.
For families, the Big Boreal Adventure scavenger hunt adds an interactive element, encouraging exploration and engagement with the natural environment. The forest's diverse flora, including pine, spruce, balsam, birch, and poplar trees, creates a rich sensory experience, complemented by the tranquility of its two ponds.
The Natural Beauty and Wildlife
While not a primary wildlife viewing area, visitors can often spot common forest birds, squirrels, and other small woodland creatures. The ponds may also attract various waterfowl. The 'secret magic rocks' mentioned by some visitors add a touch of mystery and intrigue to the natural landscape, encouraging a more observant exploration.
The forest's appeal lies in its accessible natural beauty. It's a place where you can enjoy a quiet walk, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the simple, yet profound, beauty of the Canadian Shield's natural environment.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit